Pond formed from removal of fuel storage tanks

What is now a lake at the Crookham end of the common and this one near the tower once held underground fuel tanks. Fuel contamination from 60 years of aviation fuel storage in the large and progressively leaky tanks was cleaned up by using a bioremediation process in which special fuel degrading bacteria is sprayed onto the contaminated site.

Parts of the common was re-opened to the public in 1997 and cattle re-introduced in 1999. Their grazing helps maintain the natural environment. The final areas were opened to the public in May 2000.

Head back to the Control Tower and treat yourself to a cup of tea or cold drink and perhaps a piece of amazing homemade cake from the café. When you get home take a look at the virtual tour of the tower and common via this link:

https://www.greenhamtower.org.uk/heritage-open-day-2020/